Nipples on a bull

[David Ilvedson]

You're joking right?   What would you have done without that useless pedal stored right there when you need it?..;-]

David Ilvedson, RPT
Pacifica, CA  94044


----- Original message ----------------------------------------
From: pjr <pryan2 at the-beach.net>
To: "Pianotech List" <pianotech at ptg.org>
Received: 10/20/2006 2:48:35 PM
Subject: Nipples on a bull


>After meticulously tuning a dilapidated upright piano in the back of a 
>dark stage at a school, I reached down with my foot and found the 
>sustain pedal was broken off and missing.  In order to avoid having this 
>the best tuned piano in the landfill (and to get paid), I disconnected 
>the middle pedal and gerryrigged it to act as the sustain pedal and all 
>is well in the tuning world.  Which brings me to my question - does 
>anyone know the history of why there is a useless middle pedal on 
>inexpensive upright pianos?  Is it as the proverbial expression implies 
>"Nipples on a bull"?(Apologies to the ladies)  How did it begin?  Is it 
>just psychological?  Do they do this in Europe?

>Phil Ryan
>Miami Beach